I realize this may be quite unusual to write a narrative – an introduction – for a day outing, but since it’s the first long weekend of 2026 and a first for Lisa and me, I felt a brief introduction was in order.

There was no rush to get up today, Sunday, May 17. Once we were up and about, I walked over to Bagel Nash and bought a few bagels (as well as my personal favourites). We eventually headed out, travelling north on Highway 400 to Keele Street and Holland Marsh Wineries. There, we explored the offerings, tried a few red and white wines, and left with five bottles, which I have listed below.

Our journey continued as we made a stop at Indigo in Newmarket before heading back down Yonge Street. We paused for lunch at Harvey’s and then continued our trip. Finally, we found ourselves south of Highway 407. Instead of heading east toward home, we decided to go to Dollarama in Promenade Mall. After a successful stop there, we made our way home. Overall, it was a fun outing that we both enjoyed.


HOLLAND MARSH WINERIES

 2016 Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon: Bold and rich, this wine is one to be savoured. With exceptional complexity and notes of stewed plum and blackberry accompanied by toasted vanilla, nutmeg, and bold oak flavours. This bottle truly showcases our affinity for the finer things in life. Barrel aged in Armenian & Hungarian oak for 20 months.


2020 Select Cabernet Baco: A medium bodied jammy red, composed of Cabernet Sauvignon and Baco Noir. Layered flavours of black currant, plum and dark chocolate. Finished with smooth, soft tannins. Barrel aged 6 months in Hungarian Oak. *Double-Gold Medal – All Canadian Wine Competition
We opened this bottle first, and we both loved it. It had a great smell once the cork was removed and a wonderful taste as well. If we return, we will buy another bottle.


Reserve Mélange Red: The Sundial combines two elements: time and the sun’s energy. Time is a constant, always flowing with an ever-steady pace. Measured by the movement of our sun, what we choose to do with our time is what defines us.
The King of Reserves. Our finest grapes from premier plots, coming from 3 extraordinary growing years. Uniquely blended to create a complex and rich red with concentrated plum, blackberry, and dried fruit notes with earthy and warming undertones. We achieved a wine that one might describe as timeless…
Grape Varietals: 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon, 2016 Merlot, 2012 Baco Noir.


2020 Reserve Chardonnay: An elegant and silky wine with notes of baked apple, creamy lemon, hazelnut, and a hint of vanilla. Partially aged in Armenian oak for 6 months, offering a light and buttery finish.


2022 Ephemere Rosé: Fruit forward aromas of ripe cherry, strawberry, cranberry, and peach. A hint of sweetness balanced with fresh acidity and a creamy finish.


RETURN TO NIAGARA WINES PURCHASED 2026